Rice - RIRDC Completed Projects in 2003--2004 & Research in Progress as at June 2005

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RIRDC Completed Projects in 2005-2006 & Research in Progress as at June 2006
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2.3 Rice - Completed Projects

Project No Project Title Researcher Phone Organisation

Varietal improvement & pure seeds maintenance

RRA-4A Improved seed storage and segregation for advanced breeding lines Mr Russell Ford (03) 5886 1391 Rice Research Australia Pty Ltd

USC-6A New markers for Australian rice improvement Prof Robert Henry (02) 6620 3010 Southern Cross University

Crop nutrition

DAN-222A NIR to enhance precision crop management Dr Alison Bowman (02) 6938 1628 NSW Department of Primary Industries

Varietal Improvement & Pure Seeds Maintenance

Project Title: Improved seed storage and segregation for advanced breeding lines

RIRDC Project No.: RRA-4A

Researcher: Russell Ford

Organisation: Rice Research Australia Pty Ltd
"Old Coree"
RMB 72
JERILDERIE NSW 2716

Phone: (03) 5886 1391

Fax: (03) 58861695

Email: rford@rrapl.com

Objectives ·1 To reduce the risk of genetic changes occurring in long-term cultivars by storing an adequate quantity of nucleus seed, this is used each year for the production of breeders’ seed.
·2 To store significant quantities of seed of both existing and new cultivars that have unique grain quality attributes, to enable rapid seed production when new markets arise.
·3 To reduce the risk of cross-contamination between cultivars during the early phases of the pure seed scheme, through establishing a facility which is completely separate from any paddy receivals and will incorporate world’s best practise for design, technology and quality control.

Background The Australian rice seed industry has very defined boundaries in that it is grown in and supplies only a small regional area of Australia. This region experiences temperate climate conditions for the growing season.
The introduction of rice seed from the NSWDPI breeders’ to the Pure Seed Scheme run by SunRice needs to be the highest quality and purity available to allow Australia to maintain and build its competitive marketing edge over other rice exporting countries.
This project allows for quality assurance protocols and advanced technology to be introduced in various stages of the rice seed increase system.

Research Drying and Storage systems were tested for suitability and size for managing the current and future rice seed requirements. New technology was adopted and tested to allow monitoring and controlling of the drying and storage system.
Testing facilities and systems were developed in collaboration with various partners to allow for full quality assurance identification throughout all processes.
A new delivery and recording system was developed to give full traceability of all rice seed lots grown at RRAPL.

Outcomes The quality of rice seed lots stored by RRAPL has increased dramatically since the beginning of this project. Not only have the number of rice lines stored increased from seven through to fifty five, but the Australian rice industry now have a Quality Assurance system in place for all early generation rice seed development.
The addition of cool storage has allowed SunRice to have specific seed lines prepared for a quick market response when required.

Implications The improvement to the quality and traceability of early generation seed produced by RRAPL will give distinct advantage to the purity of crops grown from this seed. Purity of early generation seed is extremely important to the final quality of all paddy produced as a derivative of this seed.
Improving market response time to new or potential varieties is also a distinct advantage to SunRice marketing.

Publications Ford R.L. (2003). Improved Seed Storage and Segregation for Advanced Breeding Lines. Proceedings Australasian Rice Field Day, February, 2003, (Poster) Rice Research Australia Pty Ltd, Old Coree, JERILDERIE. NSW.
Ford R.L. (2002, 2003, 2004). Improved Seed Storage and Segregation for Advanced Breeding Lines. IREC Farmers’ Newsletter Rice R&D Editions. Summer 2002, 2003, 2004.

Project Title: New markers for Australian rice improvement

RIRDC Project No.: USC-6A

Researcher: Prof Robert Henry

Organisation: Southern Cross University,
Centre for Plant Conservation Genetics
Faculty of Resource Science and Management
PO Box 157
LISMORE NSW 2480

Phone: (02) 6620 3010

Fax: (02) 6622 2080

Email: rhenry@scu.edu.au

Objectives ·1 To produce molecular markers for implementation in rice breeding for the selection of improved rice germplasm by 2006.

Background Molecular markers are pieces of DNA that flag the presence or absence of particular traits allowing selection to be undertaken on the basis of a simple laboratory test. In comparison with direct measurement of traits, these tests offer several advantages including being free from the confounding affects of the environment, a single platform test for multiple traits and early generation testing, often before the trait can be measured by other means. The objectives of this project were to identify, adapt and evaluate molecular markers for use in the Australian rice breeding program.

Research The research involved the evaluation of germplasm and development of markers for the major fragrance gene (fgr), rice starch gelatinisation temperature, blast disease resistance and hybrid rice.

Outcomes A competitive allele specific PCR assay for the polymorphism that is responsible for rice fragrance was developed and accurately predicted the fragrance status of each of the individuals within a population of plants derived from a cross of fragrant and non-fragrant parents. The assay can be used to detect heterozygous individuals and mixed populations.
The temperature at which rice starch gelatinises is an important component of rice eating quality. Sequence analysis of 70 rice varieties that differed by starch gelatinisation temperature (GT) allowed identification of DNA differences which led to amino acid changes that were associated with two statistically significant GT classes. A competitive allele specific PCR assay was developed for this trait. The markers detect all possible genotypes which impact upon GT.
After molecular analysis of candidate varieties, rice varieties BL14 and BL24 were found to carry blast resistance genes which are well characterised at the molecular level and hence allow accurate application of molecular marker technology. On the basis of this finding, varieties BL14 and BL24 were chosen as donors of resistance in a pre-emptive breeding program for blast disease resistance. The laboratory test that distinguishes between hybrid A and B lines was checked and found to work with 12 hybrid rice lines imported from China

Implications Molecular markers for three important traits in rice, fragrance, GT and blast resistance, are available for use in the Australian rice breeding program.

Publications Bradbury, L.M.T., Henry, R.J., Jin, Q., Reinke, R.F. and Waters, D.L.E. (2005) A perfect marker for fragrance genotyping in rice. Molecular Breeding. 16(4):279-283.
Waters, D.L.E., Henry, R.J., Reinke, R.F. and Fitzgerald, M.A. (2006) Gelatinization temperature of rice explained by polymorphisms in starch synthase. Plant Biotechnology Journal. 4:115–122.

Crop Nutrition

Project Title: NIR to enhance precision crop management

RIRDC Project No.: DAN-222A

Researcher: Dr Alison Bowman

Organisation: NSW Department of Primary Industries
Wagga Wagga Agricultural Research Institute
Private Mail Bag
WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650

Phone: (02) 6938 1999

Fax: (02) 6938 1809

Email: alison.bowman@dpi.nsw.gov.au

Objectives ·2 An evaluation of the potential of available airborne scanning NIR sensors to determine variations in dry matter and shoot composition (eg N and starch) across rice crops.
·3 An understanding of the limitations of fresh tissue analysis by airborne NIR sensors
·4 Calibrations for nutrients in fresh rice tissue for use in interpreting data obtained from airborne NIR sensors.
·5 A basis on which to keep the Tissue Testing Service in line with the latest technology.

Background This project investigated the potential of combine the precision of the NIR Rice Tissue Test with the sampling ease and overall "picture" provided by remote sensing imagery. Current remote sensing used in the rice industry produces a map distinguishing areas of differing vegetative growth, which can aid in determining where to take samples for NIR analysis but it is not a direct measurement of plant nutrients.

Research Remote sensing techniques were investigated to assess their potential to remotely determine plant nitrogen status.

Outcomes Strong correlations were developed for the remote assessment of %N and nitrogen uptake in rice crops by satellite sensors.

Implications The future use of remotely sensing the nutrient status of rice crops will depend on: the continued availability of suitable sensors, the development of timely protocols for the delivery of data and the continual improvement of calibrations.

2.3 Rice - Research in Progress

Project No Project Title Researcher Phone Organisation

Varietal improvement & pure seeds maintenance

DAN-212A How does molecular architecture of starch determine viscosity of rice? Dr Melissa Fitzgerald (02) 6951 2656 NSW Department of Primary Industries

DAN-220A Rice Improvement II Dr Russell Reinke (02) 6951 2516 NSW Department of Primary Industries

DAN-238A Rice grain quality 4 Dr Arun Aryan (02) 6951 2656 NSW Department of Primary Industries

DAN-243A Rice cold tolerance for yield stability and water-use efficiency Dr Peter Snell (02) 6951 2742 NSW Department of Primary Industries

US-143A Improvement of rice breeding by biotechnology approach Dr Norman Darvey (02) 9351 8828 The University of Sydney

Agronomy/crop physiology

DAN-207A Continuing on-farm yield improvement based on agronomy, crop modelling and rice physiology Dr Ranjith Subasinghe (02) 6951 2679 NSW Department of Primary Industries

Crop protection

DAN-240A Management and ecology of key rice pests Dr Mark Stevens (02) 6951 2611 NSW Department of Primary Industries

Sustainable farming systems

DAN-201A Permanent beds for sustainable cropping systems on rice farms Mr Geoff Beecher (02) 6951 2725 NSW Department of Primary Industries

UCA-11A Reconciling farming with wildlife: monitoring vertebrate biodiversity in the Riverina rice fields Dr Sean Doody (02) 6201 2795 University of Canberra

UCS-34A Waterfowl movements in agricultural and natural wetland landscapes Prof Nicholas Klomp (02) 6051 9905 Charles Sturt University

Technology transfer & communications

DAN-236A Extension for improving rice yields and water use efficiency Mr John Lacy (02) 6951 2738 NSW Department of Primary Industries

IRE-5A Quality rice production in South Eastern Australia Ms Lucy Kealey (02) 6963 0815 Irrigation Research & Extension Committee

IRE-6A Capacity building for a productive and sustainable rice farming system Mr Peter Draper (02) 6960 1550 Irrigation Research & Extension Committee

Varietal Improvement & Pure Seed Maintenance

Project Title: How does molecular architecture of starch determine viscosity of rice?

RIRDC Project No. DAN-212A

Start Date 01/01/2003

Finish Date 30/06/2008

Researcher Dr Melissa Fitzgerald

Organisation NSW Department of Primary Industries
Private Mail Bag
YANCO NSW 2703

Phone (02) 6951 2656

Fax (02) 6951 2719

Email melissa.fitzgerald@dpi.nsw.gov.au

Objectives ·1 Determine molecular structure of starches using techniques of synthetic polymer chemistry.
·2 Determine how molecular structure of starch influences physical process during cooking.
·3 Determine how molecular structure then influences some sensory properties of cooked rice and rice.

Current Progress Strong relationships have been determined between gelatinisation temperature (GT) and the beginning of the viscosity trace; amylose and the end of the viscosity trace; and the proportion of soluble and insoluble amylopectin and the height of the peak. This year, we used Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) at the Key Centre for Polymer Colloids, University of Sydney and showed that hot water insoluble (HWI) components of starch were larger than the hot water soluble (HWS) components. Using a doubled haploid population segregating for alleles of GT and amylose subsequent expression of the gene, will be used to determine how water soluble and insoluble components of starch directly affect viscosity. The population is a cross between Hitomebore and 89Y103. Both are temperate japonica. The parents and progeny were imported and grown in the same conditions. Hitomebore is a Japanese variety that possesses superior cooking and eating qualities and much soluble starch. 89Y103 is different grain quality. DNA has been extracted from all progeny. Hitomebore contains the same alleles of amylose and gelatinisation temperature (GT) as the highest quality and long-standing variety Koshihikari. 89Y103 contains different alleles. The population is segregating for amylose alleles, but determination of GT alleles or soluble starch in the progeny is not yet underway.

Project Title: Rice improvement II

RIRDC Project No. DAN-220A

Start Date 01/07/2003

Finish Date 31/07/2008

Researcher Dr Russell Reinke

Organisation NSW Department of Primary Industries
Yanco Agricultural Institute
PMB
YANCO NSW 2703

Phone (02) 6951 2516

Fax (02) 6955 7580

Email russell.reinke@dpi.nsw.gov.au

Objectives ·1 The breeding program exists to respond to rice industry needs for improved cultivars, specifically to address the requirements for environmental sustainability, on-farm profitability, and grain quality for existing and potential markets world-wide. No less important is the objective of ensuring that genetically-pure seed of all existing and new varieties is supplied to the industry annually. A further role that has developed recently is in the provision of appropriate populations for a significant number of RIRDC and Rice CRC-funded research projects.

Current Progress Breeding Program trials in 2005/2006 experienced hot conditions during the critical reproductive stage, resulting in high average yields from most varieties. The two most recent releases from the breeding program, the medium grains Quest and Reiziq, had average commercial yields of 9.0 and 10.8 t/ha respectively, against the industry mainstay variety Amaroo which averaged 10.3 t/ha. Trial results comparing existing varieties with advanced breeding lines mirrored the high commercial yields with Reiziq averaging 10% higher yield than Amaroo over the 6 trial sites, and Quest averaging 5% higher than Amaroo, in contrast with its commercial performance. Six of the seven advanced breeding lines also out-yielded Amaroo, including YRM69 which also has greater cold tolerance. One feature of the season was early flowering of a number of Amaroo crops, with a number around 2-3 weeks earlier than expected. Diversity Array analysis of samples from early-flowering crops confirmed the genetic identity of these crops, and that the early flowering was a feature of the season, not the result of a incorrect seed issue. Harvest of the Rice Breeding Program trial plots including hand harvest of panicle rows was completed by the end of May.

Project Title: Rice grain quality 4

RIRDC Project No. DAN-238A

Start Date 01/01/2005

Finish Date 31/12/2009

Researcher Dr Arun Aryan

Organisation NSW Department of Primary Industries
Yanco Agricultural Insitute
YANCO NSW 2703

Phone (02) 6951 2656

Fax (02) 6951 2719

Email arun.aryan@dpi.nsw.gov.au

Objectives ·2 To continue to evaluate the quality of rice breeding lines and to improve the program to evaluate quality attributes more precisely and accurately.
·3 To conduct research into grain cracking, retrogradation, gloss of cooked rice, lipid-amylose interactions, starch structure, rheology and fragrance, to understand physical and cooking quality of rice.
·4 To foster a strong and active collaboration between the Rice Improvement Program at Yanco and Cereal Chemistry and IRRI.

Current Progress Re objective (i): From the 2005 harvest, ~480 selected crossbreds were analysed for their rheological properties and amylose content and data passed onto breeders. Currently, samples (~4500) from the 2006 harvest are being evaluated for their physical attributes. The new grain inspector ‘Cervitec’ is playing a vital role in these measurements. Plant samples (~40) of doubtful identity, provided by rice growers, were genetically verified by DNA finger-printing technology.
Re objective (ii): Grain samples of cracking-prone and resistant lines were analysed for their fatty acid composition and some differences were noted in hull and bran tissues. Further analysis on lipids and protein distribution is in progress. For chalkiness, grain samples of two contrasting lines, grown at two different temperature regimes and nitrogen nutrition are currently being analysed for the target enzymes involved. Selected crossbreds, with unique cooking properties, were analysed for their allelic combination for various starch enzyme genes. Result (see attached abstract #1) will be presented at the forthcoming RACI conference. Investigation on distribution of alleles for Sbe-I enzyme, important for amylopectin structure, was conducted and results will be presented at the RACI conference (abstract #2). To understand the cooking properties of some exotic parental lines, research on their rheological properties and allelic combinations is currently being carried out. In addition, molecular markers for various starch enzymes are being developed to invoke positive selections. These markers will also be vital in variety identification by DNA finger printing, a technique of growing importance to the rice industry.
Re objective (iii): One of the technical staff from IRRI (Mr Vito) visited Yanco to learn the rice molecular marker procedures. Later, some of their rice DNA samples were analysed at Yanco. Dr Fitzgerald visited our lab for one week to finish up the past retrogradation studies and finalise a manuscript.

Project Title: Rice cold tolerance for yield stability and water-use efficiency

RIRDC Project No. DAN-243A

Start Date 01/07/2005

Finish Date 30/06/2010

Researcher: Dr Peter Snell

Organisation NSW Department of Primary Industries
Yanco Agricultural Research Institute
Private Mail Bag
YANCO NSW 2703

Phone (02) 6951 2742

Fax (02) 6951 2660

Email peter.snell@dpi.nsw.gov.au

Objectives ·1 To use recently established protocols for assessing cold tolerance in rice for accelerated breeding of adapted germplasm which will confer a 3-7 degree C improvement in cold tolerance.
·2 To ensure that cold tolerance is introgressed in backgrounds amenable to the obtainment of higher levels of cold tolerance in the 6 different quality classes of rice currently commercially grown.
·3 To investigate associated gene/s or variation in gene expression exhibit in tolerant germplasm or that in novel genotypes.

Current Progress Despite being a relative warm rice season, sowing outside (before and after) the recommended sowing widow resulted in good differentiation between cold sensitive and tolerant germplasms within the two cold tolerant nurseries. Over two thousand individual panicles were tagged allowing positive selection pressure for cold tolerance to be implemented for early generation material in populations of three commercial varieties. Selected progeny will progressed through single seed descent for further evaluation and will be used for donor germplasm for further backcrossing. Over 60% of the rice improvement (DAN220A) summer crossing program was dedicated to cold tolerance, with large numbers of viable F₁ seed sought to achieve adequate quantities for evaluation of F₂ segregents in the coming season.
Seed stocks of population’s developed and typed under past Rice CRC project’s for cold tolerance were bolstered through short-row field trials, with promising lines (220 in total) harvested for subsequent evaluation in conventional un-replicated trials next season. The cold tolerance of a promising medium grain line YRM69 in comparison to its commercial equivalent (Quest, Millin) is currently being quantified from its performance in the late sown cold tolerance nursery. Further international sources of cold tolerance are still being sought with Korean line Jinbubyeo currently in quarantine.

Project Title: Improvement of rice breeding by biotechnology approach

RIRDC Project No. US-143A

Start Date 01/07/2005

Finish Date 31/07/2006

Researcher: Dr Norman Darvey

Organisation The University of Sydney
Plant Breeding Institute - Cobbity
PMB 11
CAMDEN NSW 2570

Phone (02) 9351 8828

Fax (02) 9351 8875

Email normd@camden.usyd.edu.au

Objectives ·1 Provide double haploid plants as a service to rice breeders.
·2 Provide breeders with DH populations containing cold tolerance characteristics.
·3 Application of microspore culture to replace anther culture for large scale production of DH plants.
·4 Produce DH lines which reduce water use or increase water use efficiency within the rice industry.

Current Progress Research on plant regeneration in microspore culture is continuing. A two-step induction procedure improved plant regeneration. We have started double haploid production in combination with microspore culture. Some DH lines derived from crosses of Doongara with R29, R32 and R34 have already been delivered to rice breeders at Yanco. One F2 RIL (recombinant inbred line) population of Doongara X R31 has been grown for molecular mapping of cold tolerance. Leaf materials have been harvested for DNA extraction and genotyping. An F2 population of Doongara X R32 has been grown for the production of the RIL population. The Australian variety Reiziq and the Japanese variety Jyoudeki have been requested from breeders at Yanco, and are being grown in glasshouse. Reiziq will be crossed with cold tolerance lines - M103, Jyoudeki, HSC55, R31 and R32 to produce DH and RIL populations for cold tolerance breeding and molecular marker development.

Agronomy/Crop Physiology

Project Title: Continuing on-farm yield improvement based on agronomy, crop modelling and rice physiology

RIRDC Project No. DAN-207A

Start Date 01/07/2002

Finish Date 30/12/2007

Researcher Dr Ranjith Subasinghe

Organisation NSW Department of Primary Industries
Yanco Agricultural Institute
PMB
YANCO NSW 2703

Phone (02) 6951 2679

Fax (02) 6955 7580

Email Ranjith.Subasinghe@dpi.nsw.gov.au

Objectives ·1 Developing screening techniques for rapid early growth, high harvest index and high radiation use efficiency and introduce these characters from introduced varieties into locally adapted lines.
·2 Extending optimal management options, recently developed for Amaroo, to a range of varieties with special emphasis on nitrogen management.

Current Progress Version 6.2 of "maNage rice" was released to growers during the year. This version included following new features. · All components are now accessed from tabs displayed below the menu bar.
· Bugs have been removed from nitrogen calculations.
· The water use screen is redesigned and parameters updated.
· The zone management screen has been upgraded to prescribe straight-sided zones on images of rice fields
· Rice Diagnostics (new name for Rice Pest and Diseases) contains new images of rice disorders such as hail and mouse damage.
· Included variety and crop protection guides.
Five trials were conducted in 2005/06 season to extend the information for expanding maNage rice on nutrient management strategies. Two N trials were conducted, at Griffith and Tullakool to see the effect of rates and timing of nitrogen application on rice yield in mid seasonally drained rice fields. In addition, 3 trials were conducted in Wakool, Jerilderie, and Leeton to evaluate the effect of rate and timing on rice yield of new long grain rice variety, YRL 125. The trials compared the performance of new variety with its older counterpart – Langi in different nitrogen regimes.
Yield data indicates that the spilt application of N fertilizer gives better or comparable yields above 90 kg/ha when compared to total pre-flood nitrogen application. However, no conclusion could be made yet as sample and data collection and analysis are being continued.

Crop Protection

Project Title: Management and ecology of key rice pests

RIRDC Project No. DAN-240A

Start Date 01/07/2005

Finish Date 31/07/2008

Researcher Dr Mark Stevens

Organisation NSW Department of Primary Industries
Yanco Agricultural Institute
Private Mail Bag
YANCO NSW 2703

Phone (02) 6951 2611

Fax (02) 6951 2719

Email mark.stevens@dpi.nsw.gov.au

Objectives ·1 To complete small-scale evaluation of niclosamide and new chlorothalonil formulations for snail control in rice.
·2 To develop new DNA-based techniques to determine which species of bloodworm attack rice during later crop establishment.
·3 To complete small-scale evaluation of imidacloprid as a seed treatment for bloodworm control.

Current Progress Three trials of niclosamide for snail control were conducted in December 2005 and the optimal field application rate has been identified as 180 g ai/ha. Environmental residue trials at 180 and 360 g ai/ha showed the parent compound declined to below detection level in water 4 days after application, and was below detection level in soil 38 days after application at the 180 g ai/ha rate. Key metabolites (aminoniclosamide, hydroxyniclosamide and 5-chlorosalicylic acid) were not detected. Analysis of residues in grain and forage is currently underway. No significant niclosamide phytotoxicity to rice has been detected in the field or in the glasshouse.
Primers developed to detect rice DNA in the digestive system of bloodworms (as a method of confirming pest status) are currently being evaluated to determine if they cross-react with other potential bloodworm food sources.
Seven species of stink bugs were found in a 2006 survey of maturing rice crops. At least three of these are reproducing within the crop. The most common of these (Anaxilaus vesiculosus) has not previously been recorded as a rice pest. Stink bugs are a potential quality problem, as they feed on developing grain, producing dark blemishes that are not readily removed during milling.

Sustainable Farming Systems

Project Title: Permanent beds for sustainable cropping systems on rice farms

RIRDC Project No. DAN-201A

Start Date 01/07/2002

Finish Date 31/12/2006

Researcher Mr Geoff Beecher

Organisation NSW Department of Primary Industries
Yanco Agricultural Institute
YANCO NSW 2703

Phone (02) 6951 2725

Fax (02) 6955 7580

Email geoff.beecher@dpi.nsw.gov.au

Objectives ·1 To increase the sustainability, resource use efficiency, yield and profitability of rice based cropping systems through improved soil, water and nutrient management using permanent beds.

Current Progress Rice (cv Quest) was sown in 5 treatments in the 2005/06 season. So there was rice following 3 consecutive wheat crops on the "flat", rice following 3 years of rice on beds 1 furrow irrigated and 1 drip irrigated and rice following soybeans - drip and furrow irrigated.
Four common nitrogen fertiliser rates were applied using 3 application times- sowing, pre-permanent water and panicle initiation. The top-dressing rates applied were 2/3 at permanent water and 1/3 at panicle initiation. Rice performed well for all crop sequence and nitrogen rate treatments. There was little difference in rice grain yield at the normal N rate.
Rice grown post soybeans and rice grown on a wheat stubble (ie ley for 10 months) yielded significantly better than rice after rice at zero applied nitrogen. This yield difference was also apparent at other applied N rate treatments except the highest N rate. One crop sequence treatment had a mid season dry down treatment applied prior to panicle initiation.
Wheat has been sown in 4 treatments following rice. All rice crop residues were burnt on the raised bed treatments used during 2005/06 season. Wheat (cv. Chara and Ventura) was sown at 90 kg/ha on the 18 May 2005 using the Stubble King No till drill. Where applicable plots were either established using drip irrigation or have relied upon rainfall (with a significant delay).
In the "flat" treatment rice residue for 2 replicates has been burnt and the remaining 2 replicates have been mulched. The 4 N rate treatment applied during the 2005/06 rice growing season have resulted in a range of rice crop residue levels remaining in the un-burnt treatments. Wheat (cv.H46) has been established in 2 of these plots using the CSIRO/Indian Happy seeder. A PhD student working with Dr Liz Humphreys, CSIRO, Griffith, will undertake plant establishment and growth measurements on the wheat crop during the 2006 wheat growing season. The crop was sown on 6 July 2006 and was established on rainfall.
There has been an on-going high level of grower interest in progress of the experiment, many visitors have been hosted at the site during the past 12 months. Official visitors have included: Dr Bob Zeigler, Director General IRRI, Dr Vo Tang Xuan, Vietnam, Dr Glen Hoffman, ex US Salinity Laboratory, Riverside California. Presentations were made to Coleambally rice growers on trial progress at an on-site field day in November 2005, to NSWDPI research and extension staff July 2005 and at the RIRDC Rice R&D meeting August 2005. Presentations on aspects of the experiment were made at the IREC Irrigated Farm competition launch at Wilbriggie, May 2006. Articles on the trial were published in the IREC RIRDC Rice R&D Newsletter.
Rajinder Pal Singh is currently developing partial budget analyses for changes in rice field layout from contour layouts to landformed and beds in bankless channel field layouts. It is then planned to prepare, whole rotation and farm budgets for different field layouts and using this information measure benefits and costs of conversion to permanent raised beds layout from an existing layout.
Weekly Times: Easier crop switches, January 4, 2006
Beecher, H.G., Dunn, B.W., Mathews, S.K., Thompson, J.A., Humphreys, E. and Johnston, D. (2005). Permanent beds for sustainable cropping systems on rice farms. Farmers’ Newsletter Rice R&D Issue No 171 Summer 2005 pp. 24-27.

Project Title: Reconciling farming with wildlife: monitoring vertebrate biodiversity in the Riverina rice fields

RIRDC Project No. UCA-11A

Start Date 01/01/2006

Finish Date 31/12/2008

Researcher Dr Sean Doody

Organisation University of Canberra
Applied Ecology Research Group
BELCONNEN ACT 2601

Phone (02) 6201 2795

Fax (02) 6201 5305

Email doody@aerg.canberra.edu.au

Objectives ·1 To manage and promote existing on-farm vertebrate biodiversity using an experimental approach, as a part of the rice industry's Environmental Champions Program (ECP)
·2 Conduct medium- to long-term monitoring of selected vertebrate species in the above experiments to demonstrate the potential effectiveness of the ECP's on-farm management program for vertebrate biodiversity
·3 Conduct parallel ecological research (e.g., habitat utilisation on rice farms or the farming matrix) on selected, significant vertebrate species to facilitate on-farm management decisions

Current Progress We have successfully reached the following agreed milestones: 1. Exchange of contracts.
2. Preparation of written report for inclusion in the Farmers’ Newsletter.
3. The choice of study farms and experimental plots has begun in conjunction with the ECP and cluster groups.
4. Sites for ecological research are being selected.
The start date for the Principal Field Investigator was delayed until 1 May. Therefore, we have extended the literature survey on revegetation and landscaping deadline from 1 April to 1 September.
We have initiated a complementary research project that builds on our previous research findings that Spotted Grass Frogs represent the highest vertebrate biomass on rice farms. The project is entitled The Spotted Grass Frog (Limnodynastes Tasmaniensis) on rice farms in New South Wales, Australia: A likely natural control of rice pests. It is expected that this project will enhance our knowledge of the role of frogs on rice farms and improve our understanding of how to better manage this aspect of biodiversity. An Honours or Master’s student enrolled at the University of Canberra will conduct this research.

Project Title: Waterfowl movements in agricultural and natural wetland landscapes

RIRDC Project No. UCS-34A

Start Date 01/01/2003

Finish Date 31/12/2006

Researcher: Prof Nicholas Klomp

Organisation Charles Sturt University
School of Environmental and Information Sciences
Thurgoona Campus
PO Box 789
ALBURY NSW 2640

Phone (02) 6051 9905

Fax (02) 6051 9897

Email nklomp@csu.edu.au

Objectives ·1 To determine the movement responses of waterbirds to changes in wetland availability and analyse interactions with landscape structure at local and regional scales in the rice-growing region of New South Wales and at broad scales across inland Australia.

Current Progress All satellite transmitters deployed on Grey Teal since September 2003 have finally ceased providing data, after more than 2½ years.
The last of the original deployment of 16 units ceased operating on the 23 March 2006 and was tracked for ~879 days over more than 6478 km. Two satellite units (#52089 and #52092) deployed in November 2004 were tracked for more than a year and travelled 9724 and 7296 km respectively. The longest single flight recorded was 978 km in 40 hours, with sustained speeds of 99 km/hr for several hours recorded for another bird.
Movement data analyses is continuing in collaboration with scientists in Canberra and the Netherlands, including comparisons of movement paths in Riverina and desert birds, the timing and length of movements attributable to environmental cues (e.g rainfall) and the energetics of movements. Satellite imagery is being further analysed to investigate habitat availability and landscape structure.
Long-distance movements vary markedly at the individual level in terms of timing and direction, with the movements of this so-called nomadic species not appearing to be just random wanderings between adjacent wetlands. The observed pattern of movement suggests that Grey Teal interact with available habitat at broad scales and that movement at these scales is, at least in part, based on experience and spatial memory.

Technology Transfer & Communications

Project Title: Extension for improving rice yields and water use efficiency

RIRDC Project No. DAN-236A

Start Date 01/10/2004

Finish Date 31/07/2007

Researcher: Mr John Lacy

Organisation NSW Department of Primary Industries
Yanco Agricultural Institute
PMB
YANCO NSW 2703

Phone (02) 6951 2738

Fax (02) 6951 2620

Email John.Lacy@dpi.nsw.gov.au

Objectives ·2 To increase rice yields and water use efficiency by 5%. This will be achieved by improving adoption of the early pollen microspore water depth key check by 20%, establishment by 20%, adoption of the nitrogen uptake check by 20% and crop uniformity by 15%.
·3 To assist with the achievement of targets in the environmental champions program.

Current Progress Good establishment conditions and good microspore temperatures helped lift 2006 yields. The yield was 14% higher than the 10 year average and 10% above the warm year average. Water productivity at 0.8t/Ml for the MIA was 11% above the 10 year average.
The objective of improving adoption of 3 Ricecheck key checks was successful with an increase in adoption of the plant number check by 22%, nitrogen uptake check by 16% and microspore water depth by 16%. The 2005 Ricecheck Recommendations, Rice Crop Protection Guide and Rice Variety Guide with new primefact layouts and MaNage rice CD were mailed to every grower. The number of discussion groups run by District agronomists climbed from the drought affected number of 28 in 2004/05 to 36.
Attendance at the seven rice pre-season meetings was 495. Topics included Quest quality, the variety Reiziq, staggered sowing strategy, crop protection including the new herbicide Barnstorm® and bloodworm product Dominex® and Ricecheck and research results on split nitrogen.
The rice field day at RAPPL at the end February was successful drawing 300 people. The annual update for pilots was combined with retail agronomists attracting 80 participants.The area of crops aerial imaged for targeting sampling for the NIR test was 46500 ha or 46% of the total crop area. Data for 279 crops was inputed into the Ricecheck database.

Project Title: Quality rice production in South Eastern Australia

RIRDC Project No. IRE-5A

Start Date 01/01/99

Finish Date 15/11/06

Researcher: Ms Lucy Kealey

Organisation Irrigation and Research Extension Committee

Phone (02) 6963 0815

Fax (02) 6963 0801

Email kealey@dragnet.com.au

Objectives ·1 To improve the profitability and sustainability of rice growing and the rice industry in NSW by producing a technical reference publication "Ricegrowing in New South Wales" for ricegrowers and industry service personnel.

Current Progress Three chapters (listed below) were completed and mailed to growers in November 2005:

Chapter 14: After the rice crop

Chapter 15: Rice products - beyond the farm gate

Chapter 3: The rice plant

The last of several technical opinions on the remaining two chapters was received in May 2006 (eight months after the requested deadline), consequently these chapters are still being edited and specific issues are being reconciled with the authors.
Chapter 6: Crop nutrition is currently being edited and will be submitted to two experts for a final technical review in August, and then subsequently submitted to the grower review panel.
Chapter 7: Crop establishment and management is currently being reviewed and will be submitted to the grower panel for comment in late August.
Withstanding the timely response of reviewers, the chapters will be designed and printed for distribution at the end of 2006.
This will see the completion of the project.

Project Title: Capacity building for a productive and sustainable rice farming system

RIRDC Project No. IRE-6A

Start Date 01/07/2002

Finish Date 31/07/2007

Researcher Mr Peter Draper

Organisation Irrigation Research & Extension Committee
PO Box 1385
GRIFFITH NSW 2680

Phone (02) 6960 1550

Fax (02) 6960 1600

Email irec@irec.org.au

Objectives ·2 To provide mechanisms to build the capacity of rice growers (including the transfer of technology) for the rice R&D program which will lead to more profitable and sustainable rice and general irrigation farming systems in southern New South Wales.

Current Progress Revision and publication of Ricecheck Recommendations
The objective of improving adoption of 3 Ricecheck key checks was successful with an increase in adoption of the plant number check by 22%, nitrogen uptake check by 16% and microspore water depth by 16%. The 2005 Ricecheck Recommendations, Rice Crop Protection Guide and Rice Variety Guide with new primefact layouts and MaNage rice CD were mailed to every grower.
Rice Preseason Meetings:
Attendance at the 7 rice pre-season meetings was 495. Topics included Quest quality, the variety Reiziq, staggered sowing strategy, crop protection including the new herbicide Barnstorm® and bloodworm product Dominex® and Ricecheck and research results on split nitrogen.
Rice Field Days
The rice field day at RAPPL at the end February was successful drawing 300 people. The annual update for pilots was combined with retail agronomists attracting 80 participants.The area of crops aerial imaged for targeting sampling for the NIR test was 46500 ha or 46% of the total crop area. Data for 279 crops was inputed into the Ricecheck database.
Rice Discussion Groups:
The number of discussion groups run by District agronomists climbed from the drought affected number of 28 in 2004/05 to 36.
Farmers Newsletter
Farmer’s Newsletter is the major technical journal for publication of research and extension articles for NSW irrigation farmers in the Murray and Murrumbidgee Valleys and rice growers in Northern Victoria.
The Large Area Rice Special –sent to growers in Jan 06.
The Autumn Large Area edition - sent to growers in April 06
The Spring Large Area edition – will be sent to growers in Sept 06
Irrigated Farm Competition
The IREC once again held our annual irrigated farm competition, this year for Broadacre as is the normal rotation of the competitions. The awards dinner and announcement of winners will be held on July 27, 2006.

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Last updated: July 2006 Copyright © RIRDC 2006
http://www.rirdc.gov.au/comp06/ric1.html

2.3 Rice - Completed Projects
Project No	Project Title	Researcher	Phone	Organisation
Varietal improvement & pure seeds maintenance
RRA-4A	Improved seed storage and segregation for advanced breeding lines	Mr Russell Ford	(03) 5886 1391	Rice Research Australia Pty Ltd
USC-6A	New markers for Australian rice improvement	Prof Robert Henry	(02) 6620 3010	Southern Cross University
Crop nutrition
DAN-222A	NIR to enhance precision crop management	Dr Alison Bowman	(02) 6938 1628	NSW Department of Primary Industries

Project Title:	Improved seed storage and segregation for advanced breeding lines
RIRDC Project No.:	RRA-4A
Researcher:	Russell Ford
Organisation:	Rice Research Australia Pty Ltd "Old Coree" RMB 72 JERILDERIE NSW 2716
Phone:	(03) 5886 1391
Fax:	(03) 58861695
Email:	rford@rrapl.com
Objectives	·1 To reduce the risk of genetic changes occurring in long-term cultivars by storing an adequate quantity of nucleus seed, this is used each year for the production of breeders’ seed. ·2 To store significant quantities of seed of both existing and new cultivars that have unique grain quality attributes, to enable rapid seed production when new markets arise. ·3 To reduce the risk of cross-contamination between cultivars during the early phases of the pure seed scheme, through establishing a facility which is completely separate from any paddy receivals and will incorporate world’s best practise for design, technology and quality control.
Background	The Australian rice seed industry has very defined boundaries in that it is grown in and supplies only a small regional area of Australia. This region experiences temperate climate conditions for the growing season. The introduction of rice seed from the NSWDPI breeders’ to the Pure Seed Scheme run by SunRice needs to be the highest quality and purity available to allow Australia to maintain and build its competitive marketing edge over other rice exporting countries. This project allows for quality assurance protocols and advanced technology to be introduced in various stages of the rice seed increase system.
Research	Drying and Storage systems were tested for suitability and size for managing the current and future rice seed requirements. New technology was adopted and tested to allow monitoring and controlling of the drying and storage system. Testing facilities and systems were developed in collaboration with various partners to allow for full quality assurance identification throughout all processes. A new delivery and recording system was developed to give full traceability of all rice seed lots grown at RRAPL.
Outcomes	The quality of rice seed lots stored by RRAPL has increased dramatically since the beginning of this project. Not only have the number of rice lines stored increased from seven through to fifty five, but the Australian rice industry now have a Quality Assurance system in place for all early generation rice seed development. The addition of cool storage has allowed SunRice to have specific seed lines prepared for a quick market response when required.
Implications	The improvement to the quality and traceability of early generation seed produced by RRAPL will give distinct advantage to the purity of crops grown from this seed. Purity of early generation seed is extremely important to the final quality of all paddy produced as a derivative of this seed. Improving market response time to new or potential varieties is also a distinct advantage to SunRice marketing.
Publications	Ford R.L. (2003). Improved Seed Storage and Segregation for Advanced Breeding Lines. Proceedings Australasian Rice Field Day, February, 2003, (Poster) Rice Research Australia Pty Ltd, Old Coree, JERILDERIE. NSW. Ford R.L. (2002, 2003, 2004). Improved Seed Storage and Segregation for Advanced Breeding Lines. IREC Farmers’ Newsletter Rice R&D Editions. Summer 2002, 2003, 2004.

Project Title:	New markers for Australian rice improvement
RIRDC Project No.:	USC-6A
Researcher:	Prof Robert Henry
Organisation:	Southern Cross University, Centre for Plant Conservation Genetics Faculty of Resource Science and Management PO Box 157 LISMORE NSW 2480
Phone:	(02) 6620 3010
Fax:	(02) 6622 2080
Email:	rhenry@scu.edu.au
Objectives	·1 To produce molecular markers for implementation in rice breeding for the selection of improved rice germplasm by 2006.
Background	Molecular markers are pieces of DNA that flag the presence or absence of particular traits allowing selection to be undertaken on the basis of a simple laboratory test. In comparison with direct measurement of traits, these tests offer several advantages including being free from the confounding affects of the environment, a single platform test for multiple traits and early generation testing, often before the trait can be measured by other means. The objectives of this project were to identify, adapt and evaluate molecular markers for use in the Australian rice breeding program.
Research	The research involved the evaluation of germplasm and development of markers for the major fragrance gene (fgr), rice starch gelatinisation temperature, blast disease resistance and hybrid rice.
Outcomes	A competitive allele specific PCR assay for the polymorphism that is responsible for rice fragrance was developed and accurately predicted the fragrance status of each of the individuals within a population of plants derived from a cross of fragrant and non-fragrant parents. The assay can be used to detect heterozygous individuals and mixed populations. The temperature at which rice starch gelatinises is an important component of rice eating quality. Sequence analysis of 70 rice varieties that differed by starch gelatinisation temperature (GT) allowed identification of DNA differences which led to amino acid changes that were associated with two statistically significant GT classes. A competitive allele specific PCR assay was developed for this trait. The markers detect all possible genotypes which impact upon GT. After molecular analysis of candidate varieties, rice varieties BL14 and BL24 were found to carry blast resistance genes which are well characterised at the molecular level and hence allow accurate application of molecular marker technology. On the basis of this finding, varieties BL14 and BL24 were chosen as donors of resistance in a pre-emptive breeding program for blast disease resistance. The laboratory test that distinguishes between hybrid A and B lines was checked and found to work with 12 hybrid rice lines imported from China
Implications	Molecular markers for three important traits in rice, fragrance, GT and blast resistance, are available for use in the Australian rice breeding program.
Publications	Bradbury, L.M.T., Henry, R.J., Jin, Q., Reinke, R.F. and Waters, D.L.E. (2005) A perfect marker for fragrance genotyping in rice. Molecular Breeding. 16(4):279-283. Waters, D.L.E., Henry, R.J., Reinke, R.F. and Fitzgerald, M.A. (2006) Gelatinization temperature of rice explained by polymorphisms in starch synthase. Plant Biotechnology Journal. 4:115–122.

Project Title:	NIR to enhance precision crop management
RIRDC Project No.:	DAN-222A
Researcher:	Dr Alison Bowman
Organisation:	NSW Department of Primary Industries Wagga Wagga Agricultural Research Institute Private Mail Bag WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650
Phone:	(02) 6938 1999
Fax:	(02) 6938 1809
Email:	alison.bowman@dpi.nsw.gov.au
Objectives	·2 An evaluation of the potential of available airborne scanning NIR sensors to determine variations in dry matter and shoot composition (eg N and starch) across rice crops. ·3 An understanding of the limitations of fresh tissue analysis by airborne NIR sensors ·4 Calibrations for nutrients in fresh rice tissue for use in interpreting data obtained from airborne NIR sensors. ·5 A basis on which to keep the Tissue Testing Service in line with the latest technology.
Background	This project investigated the potential of combine the precision of the NIR Rice Tissue Test with the sampling ease and overall "picture" provided by remote sensing imagery. Current remote sensing used in the rice industry produces a map distinguishing areas of differing vegetative growth, which can aid in determining where to take samples for NIR analysis but it is not a direct measurement of plant nutrients.
Research	Remote sensing techniques were investigated to assess their potential to remotely determine plant nitrogen status.
Outcomes	Strong correlations were developed for the remote assessment of %N and nitrogen uptake in rice crops by satellite sensors.
Implications	The future use of remotely sensing the nutrient status of rice crops will depend on: the continued availability of suitable sensors, the development of timely protocols for the delivery of data and the continual improvement of calibrations.

2.3 Rice - Research in Progress
Project No	Project Title		Researcher			Phone		Organisation
Varietal improvement & pure seeds maintenance
DAN-212A	How does molecular architecture of starch determine viscosity of rice?		Dr Melissa Fitzgerald			(02) 6951 2656		NSW Department of Primary Industries
DAN-220A	Rice Improvement II		Dr Russell Reinke			(02) 6951 2516		NSW Department of Primary Industries
DAN-238A	Rice grain quality 4		Dr Arun Aryan			(02) 6951 2656		NSW Department of Primary Industries
DAN-243A	Rice cold tolerance for yield stability and water-use efficiency		Dr Peter Snell			(02) 6951 2742		NSW Department of Primary Industries
US-143A	Improvement of rice breeding by biotechnology approach		Dr Norman Darvey			(02) 9351 8828		The University of Sydney
Agronomy/crop physiology
DAN-207A	Continuing on-farm yield improvement based on agronomy, crop modelling and rice physiology		Dr Ranjith Subasinghe			(02) 6951 2679		NSW Department of Primary Industries
Crop protection
DAN-240A	Management and ecology of key rice pests		Dr Mark Stevens			(02) 6951 2611		NSW Department of Primary Industries
Sustainable farming systems
DAN-201A	Permanent beds for sustainable cropping systems on rice farms		Mr Geoff Beecher			(02) 6951 2725		NSW Department of Primary Industries
UCA-11A	Reconciling farming with wildlife: monitoring vertebrate biodiversity in the Riverina rice fields		Dr Sean Doody			(02) 6201 2795		University of Canberra
UCS-34A	Waterfowl movements in agricultural and natural wetland landscapes		Prof Nicholas Klomp			(02) 6051 9905		Charles Sturt University
Technology transfer & communications
DAN-236A		Extension for improving rice yields and water use efficiency		Mr John Lacy			(02) 6951 2738		NSW Department of Primary Industries
IRE-5A		Quality rice production in South Eastern Australia		Ms Lucy Kealey			(02) 6963 0815		Irrigation Research & Extension Committee
IRE-6A		Capacity building for a productive and sustainable rice farming system			Mr Peter Draper	(02) 6960 1550		Irrigation Research & Extension Committee

Project Title:	How does molecular architecture of starch determine viscosity of rice?
RIRDC Project No.	DAN-212A
Start Date	01/01/2003
Finish Date	30/06/2008
Researcher	Dr Melissa Fitzgerald
Organisation	NSW Department of Primary Industries Private Mail Bag YANCO NSW 2703
Phone	(02) 6951 2656
Fax	(02) 6951 2719
Email	melissa.fitzgerald@dpi.nsw.gov.au
Objectives	·1 Determine molecular structure of starches using techniques of synthetic polymer chemistry. ·2 Determine how molecular structure of starch influences physical process during cooking. ·3 Determine how molecular structure then influences some sensory properties of cooked rice and rice.
Current Progress	Strong relationships have been determined between gelatinisation temperature (GT) and the beginning of the viscosity trace; amylose and the end of the viscosity trace; and the proportion of soluble and insoluble amylopectin and the height of the peak. This year, we used Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) at the Key Centre for Polymer Colloids, University of Sydney and showed that hot water insoluble (HWI) components of starch were larger than the hot water soluble (HWS) components. Using a doubled haploid population segregating for alleles of GT and amylose subsequent expression of the gene, will be used to determine how water soluble and insoluble components of starch directly affect viscosity. The population is a cross between Hitomebore and 89Y103. Both are temperate japonica. The parents and progeny were imported and grown in the same conditions. Hitomebore is a Japanese variety that possesses superior cooking and eating qualities and much soluble starch. 89Y103 is different grain quality. DNA has been extracted from all progeny. Hitomebore contains the same alleles of amylose and gelatinisation temperature (GT) as the highest quality and long-standing variety Koshihikari. 89Y103 contains different alleles. The population is segregating for amylose alleles, but determination of GT alleles or soluble starch in the progeny is not yet underway.

Project Title:	Rice improvement II
RIRDC Project No.	DAN-220A
Start Date	01/07/2003
Finish Date	31/07/2008
Researcher	Dr Russell Reinke
Organisation	NSW Department of Primary Industries Yanco Agricultural Institute PMB YANCO NSW 2703
Phone	(02) 6951 2516
Fax	(02) 6955 7580
Email	russell.reinke@dpi.nsw.gov.au
Objectives	·1 The breeding program exists to respond to rice industry needs for improved cultivars, specifically to address the requirements for environmental sustainability, on-farm profitability, and grain quality for existing and potential markets world-wide. No less important is the objective of ensuring that genetically-pure seed of all existing and new varieties is supplied to the industry annually. A further role that has developed recently is in the provision of appropriate populations for a significant number of RIRDC and Rice CRC-funded research projects.
Current Progress	Breeding Program trials in 2005/2006 experienced hot conditions during the critical reproductive stage, resulting in high average yields from most varieties. The two most recent releases from the breeding program, the medium grains Quest and Reiziq, had average commercial yields of 9.0 and 10.8 t/ha respectively, against the industry mainstay variety Amaroo which averaged 10.3 t/ha. Trial results comparing existing varieties with advanced breeding lines mirrored the high commercial yields with Reiziq averaging 10% higher yield than Amaroo over the 6 trial sites, and Quest averaging 5% higher than Amaroo, in contrast with its commercial performance. Six of the seven advanced breeding lines also out-yielded Amaroo, including YRM69 which also has greater cold tolerance. One feature of the season was early flowering of a number of Amaroo crops, with a number around 2-3 weeks earlier than expected. Diversity Array analysis of samples from early-flowering crops confirmed the genetic identity of these crops, and that the early flowering was a feature of the season, not the result of a incorrect seed issue. Harvest of the Rice Breeding Program trial plots including hand harvest of panicle rows was completed by the end of May.

Project Title:	Rice grain quality 4
RIRDC Project No.	DAN-238A
Start Date	01/01/2005
Finish Date	31/12/2009
Researcher	Dr Arun Aryan
Organisation	NSW Department of Primary Industries Yanco Agricultural Insitute YANCO NSW 2703
Phone	(02) 6951 2656
Fax	(02) 6951 2719
Email	arun.aryan@dpi.nsw.gov.au
Objectives	·2 To continue to evaluate the quality of rice breeding lines and to improve the program to evaluate quality attributes more precisely and accurately. ·3 To conduct research into grain cracking, retrogradation, gloss of cooked rice, lipid-amylose interactions, starch structure, rheology and fragrance, to understand physical and cooking quality of rice. ·4 To foster a strong and active collaboration between the Rice Improvement Program at Yanco and Cereal Chemistry and IRRI.
Current Progress	Re objective (i): From the 2005 harvest, ~480 selected crossbreds were analysed for their rheological properties and amylose content and data passed onto breeders. Currently, samples (~4500) from the 2006 harvest are being evaluated for their physical attributes. The new grain inspector ‘Cervitec’ is playing a vital role in these measurements. Plant samples (~40) of doubtful identity, provided by rice growers, were genetically verified by DNA finger-printing technology. Re objective (ii): Grain samples of cracking-prone and resistant lines were analysed for their fatty acid composition and some differences were noted in hull and bran tissues. Further analysis on lipids and protein distribution is in progress. For chalkiness, grain samples of two contrasting lines, grown at two different temperature regimes and nitrogen nutrition are currently being analysed for the target enzymes involved. Selected crossbreds, with unique cooking properties, were analysed for their allelic combination for various starch enzyme genes. Result (see attached abstract #1) will be presented at the forthcoming RACI conference. Investigation on distribution of alleles for Sbe-I enzyme, important for amylopectin structure, was conducted and results will be presented at the RACI conference (abstract #2). To understand the cooking properties of some exotic parental lines, research on their rheological properties and allelic combinations is currently being carried out. In addition, molecular markers for various starch enzymes are being developed to invoke positive selections. These markers will also be vital in variety identification by DNA finger printing, a technique of growing importance to the rice industry. Re objective (iii): One of the technical staff from IRRI (Mr Vito) visited Yanco to learn the rice molecular marker procedures. Later, some of their rice DNA samples were analysed at Yanco. Dr Fitzgerald visited our lab for one week to finish up the past retrogradation studies and finalise a manuscript.

Project Title:	Rice cold tolerance for yield stability and water-use efficiency
RIRDC Project No.	DAN-243A
Start Date	01/07/2005
Finish Date	30/06/2010
Researcher:	Dr Peter Snell
Organisation	NSW Department of Primary Industries Yanco Agricultural Research Institute Private Mail Bag YANCO NSW 2703
Phone	(02) 6951 2742
Fax	(02) 6951 2660
Email	peter.snell@dpi.nsw.gov.au
Objectives	·1 To use recently established protocols for assessing cold tolerance in rice for accelerated breeding of adapted germplasm which will confer a 3-7 degree C improvement in cold tolerance. ·2 To ensure that cold tolerance is introgressed in backgrounds amenable to the obtainment of higher levels of cold tolerance in the 6 different quality classes of rice currently commercially grown. ·3 To investigate associated gene/s or variation in gene expression exhibit in tolerant germplasm or that in novel genotypes.
Current Progress	Despite being a relative warm rice season, sowing outside (before and after) the recommended sowing widow resulted in good differentiation between cold sensitive and tolerant germplasms within the two cold tolerant nurseries. Over two thousand individual panicles were tagged allowing positive selection pressure for cold tolerance to be implemented for early generation material in populations of three commercial varieties. Selected progeny will progressed through single seed descent for further evaluation and will be used for donor germplasm for further backcrossing. Over 60% of the rice improvement (DAN220A) summer crossing program was dedicated to cold tolerance, with large numbers of viable F₁ seed sought to achieve adequate quantities for evaluation of F₂ segregents in the coming season. Seed stocks of population’s developed and typed under past Rice CRC project’s for cold tolerance were bolstered through short-row field trials, with promising lines (220 in total) harvested for subsequent evaluation in conventional un-replicated trials next season. The cold tolerance of a promising medium grain line YRM69 in comparison to its commercial equivalent (Quest, Millin) is currently being quantified from its performance in the late sown cold tolerance nursery. Further international sources of cold tolerance are still being sought with Korean line Jinbubyeo currently in quarantine.

Project Title:	Improvement of rice breeding by biotechnology approach
RIRDC Project No.	US-143A
Start Date	01/07/2005
Finish Date	31/07/2006
Researcher:	Dr Norman Darvey
Organisation	The University of Sydney Plant Breeding Institute - Cobbity PMB 11 CAMDEN NSW 2570
Phone	(02) 9351 8828
Fax	(02) 9351 8875
Email	normd@camden.usyd.edu.au
Objectives	·1 Provide double haploid plants as a service to rice breeders. ·2 Provide breeders with DH populations containing cold tolerance characteristics. ·3 Application of microspore culture to replace anther culture for large scale production of DH plants. ·4 Produce DH lines which reduce water use or increase water use efficiency within the rice industry.
Current Progress	Research on plant regeneration in microspore culture is continuing. A two-step induction procedure improved plant regeneration. We have started double haploid production in combination with microspore culture. Some DH lines derived from crosses of Doongara with R29, R32 and R34 have already been delivered to rice breeders at Yanco. One F2 RIL (recombinant inbred line) population of Doongara X R31 has been grown for molecular mapping of cold tolerance. Leaf materials have been harvested for DNA extraction and genotyping. An F2 population of Doongara X R32 has been grown for the production of the RIL population. The Australian variety Reiziq and the Japanese variety Jyoudeki have been requested from breeders at Yanco, and are being grown in glasshouse. Reiziq will be crossed with cold tolerance lines - M103, Jyoudeki, HSC55, R31 and R32 to produce DH and RIL populations for cold tolerance breeding and molecular marker development.

Project Title:	Continuing on-farm yield improvement based on agronomy, crop modelling and rice physiology
RIRDC Project No.	DAN-207A
Start Date	01/07/2002
Finish Date	30/12/2007
Researcher	Dr Ranjith Subasinghe
Organisation	NSW Department of Primary Industries Yanco Agricultural Institute PMB YANCO NSW 2703
Phone	(02) 6951 2679
Fax	(02) 6955 7580
Email	Ranjith.Subasinghe@dpi.nsw.gov.au
Objectives	·1 Developing screening techniques for rapid early growth, high harvest index and high radiation use efficiency and introduce these characters from introduced varieties into locally adapted lines. ·2 Extending optimal management options, recently developed for Amaroo, to a range of varieties with special emphasis on nitrogen management.
Current Progress	Version 6.2 of "maNage rice" was released to growers during the year. This version included following new features. · All components are now accessed from tabs displayed below the menu bar. · Bugs have been removed from nitrogen calculations. · The water use screen is redesigned and parameters updated. · The zone management screen has been upgraded to prescribe straight-sided zones on images of rice fields · Rice Diagnostics (new name for Rice Pest and Diseases) contains new images of rice disorders such as hail and mouse damage. · Included variety and crop protection guides. Five trials were conducted in 2005/06 season to extend the information for expanding maNage rice on nutrient management strategies. Two N trials were conducted, at Griffith and Tullakool to see the effect of rates and timing of nitrogen application on rice yield in mid seasonally drained rice fields. In addition, 3 trials were conducted in Wakool, Jerilderie, and Leeton to evaluate the effect of rate and timing on rice yield of new long grain rice variety, YRL 125. The trials compared the performance of new variety with its older counterpart – Langi in different nitrogen regimes. Yield data indicates that the spilt application of N fertilizer gives better or comparable yields above 90 kg/ha when compared to total pre-flood nitrogen application. However, no conclusion could be made yet as sample and data collection and analysis are being continued.

Project Title:	Management and ecology of key rice pests
RIRDC Project No.	DAN-240A
Start Date	01/07/2005
Finish Date	31/07/2008
Researcher	Dr Mark Stevens
Organisation	NSW Department of Primary Industries Yanco Agricultural Institute Private Mail Bag YANCO NSW 2703
Phone	(02) 6951 2611
Fax	(02) 6951 2719
Email	mark.stevens@dpi.nsw.gov.au
Objectives	·1 To complete small-scale evaluation of niclosamide and new chlorothalonil formulations for snail control in rice. ·2 To develop new DNA-based techniques to determine which species of bloodworm attack rice during later crop establishment. ·3 To complete small-scale evaluation of imidacloprid as a seed treatment for bloodworm control.
Current Progress	Three trials of niclosamide for snail control were conducted in December 2005 and the optimal field application rate has been identified as 180 g ai/ha. Environmental residue trials at 180 and 360 g ai/ha showed the parent compound declined to below detection level in water 4 days after application, and was below detection level in soil 38 days after application at the 180 g ai/ha rate. Key metabolites (aminoniclosamide, hydroxyniclosamide and 5-chlorosalicylic acid) were not detected. Analysis of residues in grain and forage is currently underway. No significant niclosamide phytotoxicity to rice has been detected in the field or in the glasshouse. Primers developed to detect rice DNA in the digestive system of bloodworms (as a method of confirming pest status) are currently being evaluated to determine if they cross-react with other potential bloodworm food sources. Seven species of stink bugs were found in a 2006 survey of maturing rice crops. At least three of these are reproducing within the crop. The most common of these (Anaxilaus vesiculosus) has not previously been recorded as a rice pest. Stink bugs are a potential quality problem, as they feed on developing grain, producing dark blemishes that are not readily removed during milling.

Project Title:	Permanent beds for sustainable cropping systems on rice farms
RIRDC Project No.	DAN-201A
Start Date	01/07/2002
Finish Date	31/12/2006
Researcher	Mr Geoff Beecher
Organisation	NSW Department of Primary Industries Yanco Agricultural Institute YANCO NSW 2703
Phone	(02) 6951 2725
Fax	(02) 6955 7580
Email	geoff.beecher@dpi.nsw.gov.au
Objectives	·1 To increase the sustainability, resource use efficiency, yield and profitability of rice based cropping systems through improved soil, water and nutrient management using permanent beds.
Current Progress	Rice (cv Quest) was sown in 5 treatments in the 2005/06 season. So there was rice following 3 consecutive wheat crops on the "flat", rice following 3 years of rice on beds 1 furrow irrigated and 1 drip irrigated and rice following soybeans - drip and furrow irrigated. Four common nitrogen fertiliser rates were applied using 3 application times- sowing, pre-permanent water and panicle initiation. The top-dressing rates applied were 2/3 at permanent water and 1/3 at panicle initiation. Rice performed well for all crop sequence and nitrogen rate treatments. There was little difference in rice grain yield at the normal N rate. Rice grown post soybeans and rice grown on a wheat stubble (ie ley for 10 months) yielded significantly better than rice after rice at zero applied nitrogen. This yield difference was also apparent at other applied N rate treatments except the highest N rate. One crop sequence treatment had a mid season dry down treatment applied prior to panicle initiation. Wheat has been sown in 4 treatments following rice. All rice crop residues were burnt on the raised bed treatments used during 2005/06 season. Wheat (cv. Chara and Ventura) was sown at 90 kg/ha on the 18 May 2005 using the Stubble King No till drill. Where applicable plots were either established using drip irrigation or have relied upon rainfall (with a significant delay). In the "flat" treatment rice residue for 2 replicates has been burnt and the remaining 2 replicates have been mulched. The 4 N rate treatment applied during the 2005/06 rice growing season have resulted in a range of rice crop residue levels remaining in the un-burnt treatments. Wheat (cv.H46) has been established in 2 of these plots using the CSIRO/Indian Happy seeder. A PhD student working with Dr Liz Humphreys, CSIRO, Griffith, will undertake plant establishment and growth measurements on the wheat crop during the 2006 wheat growing season. The crop was sown on 6 July 2006 and was established on rainfall. There has been an on-going high level of grower interest in progress of the experiment, many visitors have been hosted at the site during the past 12 months. Official visitors have included: Dr Bob Zeigler, Director General IRRI, Dr Vo Tang Xuan, Vietnam, Dr Glen Hoffman, ex US Salinity Laboratory, Riverside California. Presentations were made to Coleambally rice growers on trial progress at an on-site field day in November 2005, to NSWDPI research and extension staff July 2005 and at the RIRDC Rice R&D meeting August 2005. Presentations on aspects of the experiment were made at the IREC Irrigated Farm competition launch at Wilbriggie, May 2006. Articles on the trial were published in the IREC RIRDC Rice R&D Newsletter. Rajinder Pal Singh is currently developing partial budget analyses for changes in rice field layout from contour layouts to landformed and beds in bankless channel field layouts. It is then planned to prepare, whole rotation and farm budgets for different field layouts and using this information measure benefits and costs of conversion to permanent raised beds layout from an existing layout. Weekly Times: Easier crop switches, January 4, 2006 Beecher, H.G., Dunn, B.W., Mathews, S.K., Thompson, J.A., Humphreys, E. and Johnston, D. (2005). Permanent beds for sustainable cropping systems on rice farms. Farmers’ Newsletter Rice R&D Issue No 171 Summer 2005 pp. 24-27.

Project Title:	Reconciling farming with wildlife: monitoring vertebrate biodiversity in the Riverina rice fields
RIRDC Project No.	UCA-11A
Start Date	01/01/2006
Finish Date	31/12/2008
Researcher	Dr Sean Doody
Organisation	University of Canberra Applied Ecology Research Group BELCONNEN ACT 2601
Phone	(02) 6201 2795
Fax	(02) 6201 5305
Email	doody@aerg.canberra.edu.au
Objectives	·1 To manage and promote existing on-farm vertebrate biodiversity using an experimental approach, as a part of the rice industry's Environmental Champions Program (ECP) ·2 Conduct medium- to long-term monitoring of selected vertebrate species in the above experiments to demonstrate the potential effectiveness of the ECP's on-farm management program for vertebrate biodiversity ·3 Conduct parallel ecological research (e.g., habitat utilisation on rice farms or the farming matrix) on selected, significant vertebrate species to facilitate on-farm management decisions
Current Progress	We have successfully reached the following agreed milestones: 1. Exchange of contracts. 2. Preparation of written report for inclusion in the Farmers’ Newsletter. 3. The choice of study farms and experimental plots has begun in conjunction with the ECP and cluster groups. 4. Sites for ecological research are being selected. The start date for the Principal Field Investigator was delayed until 1 May. Therefore, we have extended the literature survey on revegetation and landscaping deadline from 1 April to 1 September. We have initiated a complementary research project that builds on our previous research findings that Spotted Grass Frogs represent the highest vertebrate biomass on rice farms. The project is entitled The Spotted Grass Frog (Limnodynastes Tasmaniensis) on rice farms in New South Wales, Australia: A likely natural control of rice pests. It is expected that this project will enhance our knowledge of the role of frogs on rice farms and improve our understanding of how to better manage this aspect of biodiversity. An Honours or Master’s student enrolled at the University of Canberra will conduct this research.

Project Title:	Waterfowl movements in agricultural and natural wetland landscapes
RIRDC Project No.	UCS-34A
Start Date	01/01/2003
Finish Date	31/12/2006
Researcher:	Prof Nicholas Klomp
Organisation	Charles Sturt University School of Environmental and Information Sciences Thurgoona Campus PO Box 789 ALBURY NSW 2640
Phone	(02) 6051 9905
Fax	(02) 6051 9897
Email	nklomp@csu.edu.au
Objectives	·1 To determine the movement responses of waterbirds to changes in wetland availability and analyse interactions with landscape structure at local and regional scales in the rice-growing region of New South Wales and at broad scales across inland Australia.
Current Progress	All satellite transmitters deployed on Grey Teal since September 2003 have finally ceased providing data, after more than 2½ years. The last of the original deployment of 16 units ceased operating on the 23 March 2006 and was tracked for ~879 days over more than 6478 km. Two satellite units (#52089 and #52092) deployed in November 2004 were tracked for more than a year and travelled 9724 and 7296 km respectively. The longest single flight recorded was 978 km in 40 hours, with sustained speeds of 99 km/hr for several hours recorded for another bird. Movement data analyses is continuing in collaboration with scientists in Canberra and the Netherlands, including comparisons of movement paths in Riverina and desert birds, the timing and length of movements attributable to environmental cues (e.g rainfall) and the energetics of movements. Satellite imagery is being further analysed to investigate habitat availability and landscape structure. Long-distance movements vary markedly at the individual level in terms of timing and direction, with the movements of this so-called nomadic species not appearing to be just random wanderings between adjacent wetlands. The observed pattern of movement suggests that Grey Teal interact with available habitat at broad scales and that movement at these scales is, at least in part, based on experience and spatial memory.

Project Title:	Extension for improving rice yields and water use efficiency
RIRDC Project No.	DAN-236A
Start Date	01/10/2004
Finish Date	31/07/2007
Researcher:	Mr John Lacy
Organisation	NSW Department of Primary Industries Yanco Agricultural Institute PMB YANCO NSW 2703
Phone	(02) 6951 2738
Fax	(02) 6951 2620
Email	John.Lacy@dpi.nsw.gov.au
Objectives	·2 To increase rice yields and water use efficiency by 5%. This will be achieved by improving adoption of the early pollen microspore water depth key check by 20%, establishment by 20%, adoption of the nitrogen uptake check by 20% and crop uniformity by 15%. ·3 To assist with the achievement of targets in the environmental champions program.
Current Progress	Good establishment conditions and good microspore temperatures helped lift 2006 yields. The yield was 14% higher than the 10 year average and 10% above the warm year average. Water productivity at 0.8t/Ml for the MIA was 11% above the 10 year average. The objective of improving adoption of 3 Ricecheck key checks was successful with an increase in adoption of the plant number check by 22%, nitrogen uptake check by 16% and microspore water depth by 16%. The 2005 Ricecheck Recommendations, Rice Crop Protection Guide and Rice Variety Guide with new primefact layouts and MaNage rice CD were mailed to every grower. The number of discussion groups run by District agronomists climbed from the drought affected number of 28 in 2004/05 to 36. Attendance at the seven rice pre-season meetings was 495. Topics included Quest quality, the variety Reiziq, staggered sowing strategy, crop protection including the new herbicide Barnstorm® and bloodworm product Dominex® and Ricecheck and research results on split nitrogen. The rice field day at RAPPL at the end February was successful drawing 300 people. The annual update for pilots was combined with retail agronomists attracting 80 participants.The area of crops aerial imaged for targeting sampling for the NIR test was 46500 ha or 46% of the total crop area. Data for 279 crops was inputed into the Ricecheck database.

Project Title:	Quality rice production in South Eastern Australia
RIRDC Project No.	IRE-5A
Start Date	01/01/99
Finish Date	15/11/06
Researcher:	Ms Lucy Kealey
Organisation	Irrigation and Research Extension Committee
Phone	(02) 6963 0815
Fax	(02) 6963 0801
Email	kealey@dragnet.com.au
Objectives	·1 To improve the profitability and sustainability of rice growing and the rice industry in NSW by producing a technical reference publication "Ricegrowing in New South Wales" for ricegrowers and industry service personnel.
Current Progress	Three chapters (listed below) were completed and mailed to growers in November 2005: Chapter 14: After the rice crop Chapter 15: Rice products - beyond the farm gate Chapter 3: The rice plant The last of several technical opinions on the remaining two chapters was received in May 2006 (eight months after the requested deadline), consequently these chapters are still being edited and specific issues are being reconciled with the authors. Chapter 6: Crop nutrition is currently being edited and will be submitted to two experts for a final technical review in August, and then subsequently submitted to the grower review panel. Chapter 7: Crop establishment and management is currently being reviewed and will be submitted to the grower panel for comment in late August. Withstanding the timely response of reviewers, the chapters will be designed and printed for distribution at the end of 2006. This will see the completion of the project.

Project Title:	Capacity building for a productive and sustainable rice farming system
RIRDC Project No.	IRE-6A
Start Date	01/07/2002
Finish Date	31/07/2007
Researcher	Mr Peter Draper
Organisation	Irrigation Research & Extension Committee PO Box 1385 GRIFFITH NSW 2680
Phone	(02) 6960 1550
Fax	(02) 6960 1600
Email	irec@irec.org.au
Objectives	·2 To provide mechanisms to build the capacity of rice growers (including the transfer of technology) for the rice R&D program which will lead to more profitable and sustainable rice and general irrigation farming systems in southern New South Wales.
Current Progress	Revision and publication of Ricecheck Recommendations The objective of improving adoption of 3 Ricecheck key checks was successful with an increase in adoption of the plant number check by 22%, nitrogen uptake check by 16% and microspore water depth by 16%. The 2005 Ricecheck Recommendations, Rice Crop Protection Guide and Rice Variety Guide with new primefact layouts and MaNage rice CD were mailed to every grower. Rice Preseason Meetings: Attendance at the 7 rice pre-season meetings was 495. Topics included Quest quality, the variety Reiziq, staggered sowing strategy, crop protection including the new herbicide Barnstorm® and bloodworm product Dominex® and Ricecheck and research results on split nitrogen. Rice Field Days The rice field day at RAPPL at the end February was successful drawing 300 people. The annual update for pilots was combined with retail agronomists attracting 80 participants.The area of crops aerial imaged for targeting sampling for the NIR test was 46500 ha or 46% of the total crop area. Data for 279 crops was inputed into the Ricecheck database. Rice Discussion Groups: The number of discussion groups run by District agronomists climbed from the drought affected number of 28 in 2004/05 to 36. Farmers Newsletter Farmer’s Newsletter is the major technical journal for publication of research and extension articles for NSW irrigation farmers in the Murray and Murrumbidgee Valleys and rice growers in Northern Victoria. The Large Area Rice Special –sent to growers in Jan 06. The Autumn Large Area edition - sent to growers in April 06 The Spring Large Area edition – will be sent to growers in Sept 06 Irrigated Farm Competition The IREC once again held our annual irrigated farm competition, this year for Broadacre as is the normal rotation of the competitions. The awards dinner and announcement of winners will be held on July 27, 2006.